AKIPRESS.COM - Development of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture as part of the green economy promotion in the Aral Sea region was the topic of the OSCE-supported training seminar that was held on November 18 in Kyzyl-Orda.

The event was organized by the OSCE Centre in Astana, in partnership with the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) Executive Directorate in Kazakhstan, local administration of the Kyzyl-Orda Region and the Aral-Syrdariya Water Basin Council for some 60 representatives of central and local authorities, scientific and research institutions, academia, the business community and non-governmental environmental organizations.

The seminar provided a platform for dialogue on current situation and prospects for developing fisheries and aquaculture in the region in view of climate change, sustainable use of fish resources under the National Strategy for Preserving Biodiversity in Kazakhstan until 2030, the implementation of pilot projects and the introduction of advanced technologies in this field.

Participants also explored opportunities for reducing the environmental impact of economic activities on the Aral Sea, further developing the legal framework of the fishing industry, applying best practices and international standards in the fishery industry. A set of recommendations for relevant authorities and the scientific community was developed as a result of the discussions.

“Good opportunities for increasing fish production and consumption in the region could be provided not only by the traditional fishing but also through fish farming. Many OSCE participating States have rich experience in this field”, said Ambassador Natalia Zarudna, Head of the OSCE Centre in Astana. “In view of the limited water resources in the region, this might be the best solution for the Aral Sea area, though it would require considerable initial investments, state support and intensive training efforts with the involvement of well experienced experts.”

Serik Kozhaniyazov, Deputy Akim of the Kyzylorda Region said: The topic of today’s training seminar is very topic to our region located in the lowest reaches of the Syr Darya River. Due to the implementation of the first phase of the ambitious project aimed to regulate the Syr Darya River and preserve the Northern Aral Sea we have got an opportunity to develop diversified and productive fish farming in the region.”

After the construction of the Kokaral Dam in the framework of the project the Aral Sea was divided into two parts. Subsequently the Lesser Aral Sea located in the territory of Kazakhstan received an impetus to revive the fishing industry with a rise of its water level.

The event is part of the Centre’s long-term efforts to promote efficient water management and protect fragile ecosystems in the northern part of the Aral Sea. It is a follow-up to initiatives spelled out in the Memorandum of Understanding between Kazakhstan’s branch of IFAS and the OSCE Centre in Astana.